Cheese Tortellini with Butter, Mushrooms, and Crispy Sage

If you’re looking for a quick and comforting meal, I have just the thing for you: Cheese Tortellini with Butter, Mushrooms, and Crispy Sage. This dish is a delightful blend of flavors that takes grocery store tortellini from ordinary to extraordinary in no time. Whether you’re having a busy weeknight dinner or hosting friends for a cozy gathering, this recipe is sure to impress.

What makes this dish even more special is its simplicity. With just a few wholesome ingredients, you can create a gourmet experience right in your kitchen. The buttery sauce combined with earthy mushrooms and the aromatic crispy sage brings warmth and joy to any table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy: Perfect for busy weeknights when you need dinner on the table fast.
• Family-friendly: Even picky eaters will love the cheesy tortellini and savory flavors.
• Make-ahead convenience: Prep the ingredients earlier in the day for an even quicker cook time later.
• Delicious flavor: The combination of butter, mushrooms, and fresh sage creates a mouthwatering dish that feels gourmet.
• Versatile: Easily adapt this recipe with different vegetables or seasonings based on what you have on hand.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe calls for simple, wholesome ingredients that come together beautifully. Here’s what you’ll need to create your Cheese Tortellini with Butter, Mushrooms, and Crispy Sage:

• 1 (20 ounce) package refrigerated cheese tortellini
• 1 tablespoon fresh sage (chopped)
• 8 ounces cremini mushrooms (sliced)
• 3 tablespoons butter (divided)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 clove garlic (minced)
• 1/2 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
• Salt & pepper (to taste)

Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is how flexible it is! You can easily customize it based on what you enjoy or have available. Here are some fun variations to try:

• Add veggies: Toss in some spinach or kale for extra nutrition and color.
• Swap the cheese: Use ricotta or goat cheese instead of parmesan for a different flavor profile.
• Change the mushrooms: Experiment with different types like shiitake or button mushrooms for varying textures.
• Boost the protein: Add grilled chicken or sautéed shrimp for a heartier meal.

How to Make Cheese Tortellini with Butter, Mushrooms, and Crispy Sage

Step 1: Boil the Tortellini

Start by boiling water in a large pot. Once it’s bubbling away, add your refrigerated tortellini. Cooking according to package instructions is key here; this will ensure they’re perfectly tender and ready to soak up all that delicious sauce later.

Step 2: Prepare the Ingredients

While your tortellini cooks, take this time to prep your mushrooms and sage. Slicing the cremini mushrooms thinly allows them to cook evenly and develop their rich flavor. Chopping fresh sage releases its fragrant oils, making your dish smell incredible as it cooks.

Step 3: Crisp the Sage

When your tortellini has about 6-7 minutes left, grab a skillet and add 1 tablespoon of butter along with olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, toss in your chopped sage. Cook it until crispy—this only takes about a minute! Removing it early keeps that lovely crunch intact.

Step 4: Sauté the Mushrooms

In the same skillet, add sliced mushrooms along with another tablespoon of butter and minced garlic. Sauté these until they turn golden brown—about five minutes—stirring occasionally. This step enhances their natural sweetness while adding depth to your pasta dish.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Once your tortellini are cooked and drained, add them directly into the skillet with the sautéed mushrooms. Toss in any remaining butter, freshly grated parmesan cheese, and those crispy sage leaves. It’s important to mix everything well so each piece is coated in that luscious sauce! Season with salt and pepper to taste before serving immediately.

Now you’re ready to enjoy a fantastic plate of Cheese Tortellini with Butter, Mushrooms, and Crispy Sage!

Pro Tips for Making Cheese Tortellini with Butter, Mushrooms, and Crispy Sage

Cooking should be a joyful experience, and these helpful tips will ensure your tortellini dish turns out perfectly every time!

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh sage and high-quality mushrooms can significantly enhance the flavors of your dish. Fresh herbs bring vibrancy and aroma that dried herbs simply can’t match.

• Don’t overcook the tortellini: Follow the package instructions closely to avoid mushy pasta. Al dente tortellini has a delightful bite that holds up well when tossed with the sauce.

• Adjust seasoning gradually: When adding salt and pepper, start small and taste as you go. This way, you can achieve the perfect flavor balance without overwhelming the dish.

• Reserve some pasta water: If your sauce seems too thick, adding a splash of the reserved pasta water can help loosen it up while also enhancing the flavor with starchy goodness.

• Experiment with different cheeses: While parmesan is standard, trying other cheeses like pecorino or a sprinkle of goat cheese can add an exciting twist to your dish!

How to Serve Cheese Tortellini with Butter, Mushrooms, and Crispy Sage

Presentation is key when serving this delightful dish! A little effort in how you plate it can elevate your meal from simple to spectacular.

Garnishes

• Fresh parsley: Chopped fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness that complements the earthy flavors of mushrooms beautifully.
• Zest of lemon: A sprinkle of lemon zest right before serving brightens up the dish and adds a hint of citrusy brightness.
• Cracked black pepper: A final dusting of freshly cracked black pepper not only looks appealing but also adds an extra layer of flavor.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Bread: Warm, buttery garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any remaining sauce on your plate. It’s easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser!
• Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a simple vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the rich tortellini.
• Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables like asparagus or zucchini seasoned with olive oil create a colorful side that enhances your meal’s nutritional value.
• Steamed Broccoli: Steamed broccoli adds both color and crunch to your plate while providing fiber and vitamins to balance out the richness of the cheese tortellini.

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’re all set to create a charming dinner experience with Cheese Tortellini with Butter, Mushrooms, and Crispy Sage. Enjoy every delicious bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Cheese Tortellini with Butter, Mushrooms, and Crispy Sage recipe is perfect for meal prep! You can prepare it ahead of time, making weeknight dinners a breeze. Here’s how to store leftovers and enjoy them later.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover tortellini in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• It’s best to consume leftovers within 3 days for optimal freshness.
• When storing, try to keep the mushrooms and sauce separate from the tortellini to prevent sogginess.

Freezing

• Allow the dish to cool completely before freezing.
• Portion out the tortellini into freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Freeze for up to 2 months. Remember to label your containers with the date!

Reheating

• For best results, reheat leftovers on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth if needed.
• You can also microwave individual portions for about 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even heating.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delicious dish!

Can I make Cheese Tortellini with Butter, Mushrooms, and Crispy Sage vegetarian?

Absolutely! This recipe is already vegetarian-friendly as it uses cheese tortellini and plant-based ingredients.

How can I customize my Cheese Tortellini with Butter, Mushrooms, and Crispy Sage?

Feel free to add extra vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for more nutrition! You can also experiment with different herbs or use a blend of mushrooms for added flavor.

Is Cheese Tortellini with Butter, Mushrooms, and Crispy Sage suitable for meal prep?

Yes! This dish stores well in the fridge and can be frozen for later use. Just follow the storage instructions above.

What can I serve with Cheese Tortellini with Butter, Mushrooms, and Crispy Sage?

Consider pairing it with a fresh salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. A light dessert would also be a lovely way to finish!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this delightful Cheese Tortellini with Butter, Mushrooms, and Crispy Sage! It’s such a comforting dish that brings gourmet flavors right into your home kitchen. Whether you’re treating yourself or sharing with loved ones, this recipe is sure to impress. Happy cooking!